United to End FGM, a coalition led by Amnesty International Ireland, has released a free e-learning course to raise awareness of female genital mutilation (FGM) and enhance the ability of health professionals and asylum officers in the EU to support women and girls affected by FGM.

FGM is a form of violence against women which involves the partial or complete removal of the external female genitalia. It is practiced in a variety of cultures for a variety of reasons. It has no therapeutic value and can have severe short-term and long-term physical and psychological consequences. It is estimated that 500,000 women and girls in the EU have been affected by FGM and that another 180,000 are at risk each year. Advocates agree that raising awareness must be a priority in addressing the issue.

The online course consists of two Foundational Modules, providing an introduction to FGM in the context of international human rights norms, and four Specialized Modules, providing material specifically tailored to the work of health professionals and asylum officers. Upon completion, participants should be able to describe and communicate the types and effects of FGM in a culturally-sensitive manner, frame FGM as a human rights issue, identify relevant European and international asylum regulations and treaty provisions, and adopt a transcultural approach to the healthcare needs of women and girls. The course is available in English, Portuguese, and Italian.

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